Denon DP-450USB Turntable with USB Digitisation

The Denon DP-450USB is a belt-drive turntable with a pre-mounted MM cartridge, switchable phono preamp and a USB output for digitising your vinyl collection.

You unpack it, screw on the feet, connect RCA cables or a USB cable – done. No cartridge alignment, no hunting for a separate phono preamp: both are already taken care of, or built in. For anyone who just wants to listen to records again without first taking a course in tonearm geometry, that's a very pleasant starting point.

Why the DP-450USB?

Because it bridges two worlds: classic vinyl listening and the option to turn old records into digital files. The USB output records directly as MP3 or WAV – handy for records that never made it to CD or streaming. Digitising is an option here, not a requirement: if you only want to listen in analogue, you simply leave the USB port unused. The switchable phono equalizer also allows connection to almost any amplifier, whether it has its own phono input or not.

What you hear

The DP-450USB plays cleanly, calmly and with stable timing – the belt drive runs quietly, and the pre-mounted MM cartridge delivers a balanced, pleasantly warm foundation. No sonic miracle, but an honest, reliable performance that keeps voices and instruments clearly separated. If you're upgrading from an old compact-system turntable, you'll hear the difference immediately.

Who is the DP-450USB for? (and who isn't it for)

Straight talk: the DP-450USB is an entry- to mid-level deck – ideal if you want to get started without fuss and see the USB recording as a bonus. Digitising happens in MP3 or CD quality (WAV, 44.1 kHz/16-bit), not studio resolution – plenty for archiving purposes, but not for audiophile remastering. If you'd rather tinker with the tonearm and cartridge and try out system after system, you'll eventually outgrow this deck and are better off looking at the next class up.

Our verdict

The DP-450USB does exactly what it promises: uncomplicated record listening with the option to back up your collection on the side. For anyone who wants a turntable that simply works, this is a very solid recommendation – with no compromise on the core job of playing vinyl.

Technical data

• Drive: belt drive, DC servo motor
• Speeds: 33 1/3, 45, 78 rpm
• Wow and flutter: 0.1% (WRMS)
• Tonearm: statically balanced, effective length 220 mm, overhang 16 mm
• Tracking force range: 0–4.0 g
• Cartridge: MM type, pre-mounted at the factory (replacement stylus type DSN-85)
• Phono preamp: built in, switchable (equalizer off: 2.5 mV / equalizer on: 150 mV)
• USB output: USB-A, digitising as MP3 (192 kbps) or WAV (44.1 kHz/16-bit)
• Output level: switchable – phono level (equalizer off) or line level via the internal phono preamp (equalizer on)
• Headphone output: not available
• Power consumption: 10 W (operation), 0.5 W or less (standby)
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 414 × 132 × 347 mm
• Weight: 5.6 kg (including dust cover)
• Included: DP-450USB deck, pre-mounted MM cartridge, removable dust cover (also usable as a cover stand), RCA cable, power adapter

Frequently asked questions

Does the Denon DP-450USB need an external phono preamp?
No. The DP-450USB has a built-in, switchable phono preamp. If your amplifier has its own phono input, simply switch it off and use that input's equalisation. If it only has line inputs (AUX), leave it switched on and connect the deck directly.

Can I digitise my records with the DP-450USB?
Yes, via the built-in USB-A output you record directly as MP3 (192 kbps) or WAV (44.1 kHz/16-bit, CD quality). Handy for records you want to listen to on the go or simply back up. It's not intended for audiophile high-res archiving, but the quality is more than enough for everyday use.

Is a cartridge already mounted on the DP-450USB?
Yes, an MM cartridge is pre-mounted and aligned at the factory. You can start straight away; a later switch to a different MM or MC cartridge is possible if you decide to move up a level at some point.

Who is the DP-450USB especially suited for?
For anyone who wants to (re)discover records without fuss and appreciates the option to digitise, without having to get into tonearm geometry beforehand. Ideal for small to medium-sized rooms and first-time systems.

Why buy the Denon DP-450USB at HD Zürisee?
Because we show you how to connect it correctly – phono switching, grounding, USB recording – and tell you honestly whether a cartridge upgrade would even be worthwhile for you. Our technician Mauri helps with setup. Call us (044 680 22 00) or message us on WhatsApp (076 534 22 00, text only, no calls).

Goes well with

If your amplifier has no phono input, you'll find alternatives under phono preamps; for a later cartridge upgrade, see cartridges. Accessories such as record brushes or cleaning products are available under turntable accessories. More decks under turntables, the full Denon range at Denon.